How To Use CPT Code 89281

CPT 89281 describes the technical steps performed by a lab analyst to assist in fertilizing eggs using microtechniques. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 89281?

CPT 89281 can be used to describe the technical lab steps performed by a lab analyst to assist in fertilizing eggs, known as oocytes, using microtechniques. This code is used when more than 10 oocytes are being fertilized. The lab analyst uses high power magnification and sophisticated equipment to introduce a single sperm into each mature oocyte, after stripping the outer egg.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 89281 is: ‘Assisted oocyte fertilization, microtechnique; greater than 10 oocytes.’

3. Procedure

1. The lab analyst performs the technical steps to assist in fertilizing oocytes retrieved from a female patient during an in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycle.
2. The analyst uses microtechniques, including high power magnification and sophisticated equipment, to introduce a single sperm into each mature oocyte.
3. This procedure is performed when more than 10 oocytes are being fertilized.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 89281 is used when there are more than 10 oocytes undergoing assisted fertilization. Clinicians typically order this service in a facility specializing in reproductive medicine and infertility treatments. The procedure is performed by a lab analyst with expertise in microtechniques.

5. When to use CPT code 89281

CPT code 89281 should be used when there are more than 10 oocytes undergoing assisted fertilization using microtechniques. It should not be reported in addition to CPT code 89280, which is used for the fertilization of less than or equal to 10 oocytes.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 89281, the documentation should include:

• Number of oocytes undergoing assisted fertilization
• Date of the procedure
• Signature of the lab analyst performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 89281, ensure that the procedure involves the fertilization of more than 10 oocytes using microtechniques. Do not report CPT 89281 in addition to CPT 89280. It is important to follow the specific guidelines provided by the payer and use the appropriate modifiers if required.

8. Historical information

CPT 89281 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2004. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A lab analyst performing assisted oocyte fertilization using microtechniques for 15 oocytes.
2. A reproductive medicine specialist overseeing the fertilization of 12 oocytes using microtechniques.
3. A fertility clinic performing assisted oocyte fertilization using microtechniques for 25 oocytes.
4. A lab analyst using microtechniques to assist in fertilizing 18 oocytes retrieved from a female patient.
5. A reproductive medicine facility performing assisted oocyte fertilization using microtechniques for 11 oocytes.
6. A lab analyst performing the technical steps to fertilize 14 oocytes using microtechniques.
7. A fertility specialist overseeing the assisted fertilization of 17 oocytes using microtechniques.
8. A reproductive medicine clinic performing assisted oocyte fertilization using microtechniques for 13 oocytes.
9. A lab analyst using microtechniques to assist in fertilizing 16 oocytes retrieved from a female patient.
10. A fertility center performing assisted oocyte fertilization using microtechniques for 20 oocytes.